We want our children to become intellectuals (my definition: intelligence + knowledge =
intellectuality) and at the same time become successful and if possible useful to society. (I have
removed 'to be happy' from this list because I consider that as a byproduct)
So, what kind of activities we can put our children into during their childhood, so that above goals are most probably met?
Answer:
what ever we do, outcome is random; whatever is their destiny, that will happen. Everything is
determined by their genes. So every situation is different, there is no single solution.
I get bored of the above answers. So some of my ideas are captured below.
I think there are 3 basis vectors of learning. I mean everything else can be derived from these three basis vectors. (This assumption can be questioned)
These are
Reading
Interacting with people and things
Develop logic and math
(I have taken it as granted that parents can provide happy and healthy environments for their
children. The above are next level parameters)
Let me elaborate
1. Reading:
There is no substitute for reading. Reading various kinds of things including stories is highly
beneficial. It has multiple effects on one's brain.
ï‚· One can acquire knowledge from across the globe in many subjects.
ï‚· Language proficiency that can strengthen the brain.
ï‚· Ability to simulate situations before taking decisions is the most important outcome of reading.
ï‚· Ability to write well is a byproduct.
ï‚· Children get interested in the areas that are woven in the stories and they would like to study these topics.
2. Interacting with people and things
Reading gives theoretical knowledge and interaction with the world makes that knowledge real.
Interaction with people helps one develop good understanding of individuals and society. If one
travels to various places, this understanding will become diverse and yields good generalizations.
Interaction with nature, both living and non-living gives higher level of understanding about the laws of nature.
Interaction with man-made things like useful products, constructions and machines can give children exposure to what can be done with acquired knowledge.
3. Logic and math
(Qualitative and quantitative reasoning)
Reasoning is the most important skill needed to survive and succeed in life. Reasoning can be the foundation for the search for truth.
There are two kinds of reasoning; one that deals with connection between the events and the other that deals with the weightage of each connection.
Qualitative reasoning helps one to construct the causation of events and learn about various factors that can affect an outcome.
Quantitative reasoning is about understanding the weightage of these factors and techniques of
computing the outcome using these weightages.
First kind of reasoning is what we crudely call logic and the second one as math.
If we can identify the activities that children can involve where these 3 basic skills are developed,
then we will be providing a path for them to become useful intellectuals.